9 Top Tips for Labour

Labour can be a challenging yet empowering experience for many women, so we sat down with our expert midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Harriet Blannin-Ferguson from The Breast Help, to discuss all things birth preparation. 

Here are her top tips to help you feel more prepared, confident and supported throughout labour and your journey to meeting your little one.

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

Learn this breathing technique before labour. It's a useful, lifelong skill that can help you stay calm and focused during contractions. Take slow, deep breaths, inhaling strength and exhaling tension.

2. Movement Matters

Gentle swaying, rocking or even walking can help ease discomfort and encourage your baby to move down through the pelvis. Try sitting and swaying on a gym ball or using @the.birth.sling for additional support.

3. Visualise and Relax

Use positive affirmations and visualisation techniques to help you stay calm and focused. When things feel intense, try shifting your attention away from the contractions and imagining the moment you finally meet your beautiful baby.

4. Your Support Team

Surround yourself with people who make you feel safe, comfortable and supported. Whether it's your partner, midwife or doula, having a loving support team by your side can make a world of difference to your birth experience.

5. Water, Water, Water

A warm bath or shower can help ease pain and tension during labour. You can get in and out of the water as often as you feel comfortable, depending on your individual circumstances.

6. Music and Aromatherapy

Create a calming atmosphere with your favourite music and soothing scents. Put together a playlist of songs that bring back happy memories or help you feel relaxed and comfortable.

7. Change Positions

Experiment with different positions, like squatting, kneeling or getting onto your hands and knees, to find what feels best for you. If something doesn't feel comfortable, try changing positions. Listen to your body and move in a way that feels right.

8. Consider a TENS Machine

A TENS machine may help ease discomfort and shift your focus away from contractions. Many places now offer TENS machines for hire, so it's worth exploring this option before labour.

9. Stay Positive

Trust your body's incredible abilities. Every labour experience is different, so take things one contraction at a time and lean on your support team when you need to.